Locally Speaking

Philadelphia Becomes First City To Offer Tax Credits For Gay-Friendly Companies

The sweeping LGBT anti-discrimination legislation introduced by Philadelphia councilman and straight ally Jim Kenney (photo above) is now law.  Mayor Michael Nutter signed the bill last Thursday, which overwhelmingly passed the city council last month. As the mayor attached his signature, Philadelphia became the first city in the country to offer tax credits for businesses that offer benefits to the families of its gay employees and for trans-inclusive health-care policies.

Said Mayor Nutter upon signing the law:

    “My goal is for Philadelphia to be one of, if not the most, LGBT-friendly cities in the world and a leader on equality issues.”

The new law goes where few cities have gone before:

• It amends the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance to include gender identity, and extends recognition to same-sex couples.
• New construction and buildings being renovated by the city must now include gender neutral bathrooms in addition to those for men and women.
• Forms and websites will be revised to offer options for same-sex couples and transgendered individuals.
• Same-sex partners are assured the right to make medical and end-of-life decisions for each other.

SimsThere is some irony in the fact that Philadelphia is located in the only northeast state that does not permit same-sex marriages, though several lawsuits are pending. In addition, State Representative Brian Sims, (right) the first openly gay man elected to statewide office, introduced a same-sex marriage bill last month.

Rep. Sims noted the passage of the Philadelphia law, telling reporters:

    “This is a city that is truly respecting all its citizens. It is because of that respect that we are indeed a first-class city and we will continue to shine.” -The New Civil Rights Movement